Let’s talk about the science behind people-pleasing. While it’s often dismissed as a personality trait, people-pleasing is actually a learned behavior shaped by social structures, power dynamics, and our fundamental need for belonging.
From Goffman’s dramaturgy to Asch’s conformity experiments, we’ll unpack the sociology behind people-pleasing—and explore how to break free from these patterns.
Press play and let’s learn together!
IG: @specimenthesociologist
We’re closing out our anxiety mini-series with a review of The Anxious Generation. Social psychologist Jonathan Haidt explores how childhood has shifted from play-based to phone-based—and how that shift fuels rising anxiety, depression, and disconnection.
In this episode, I break down Haidt’s key insights and share practical ways to build a more resilient generation by strengthening identity and core values—not just cutting screen time.
Topics include:
Why adolescent brains are especially vulnerable
Cultural forces driving disconnection
How phone-based childhood impacts mental health and identity
Solutions for creating healthier pathways for kids and teens
IG: @specimenthesociologist
If you’ve been on this planet for more than two seconds, you’ve probably had your trust betrayed—or betrayed someone else’s. Fear not—your favorite specimen is here to unpack the science of trust: how it’s built, how to identify trustworthy people, and how to become one yourself!
Specimen Linktree: Click here!
In this episode, I dive into the Sociology of SNAP—the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program—and explore how it reflects America’s values, inequalities, and systems of social control. From the history of food stamps to the modern fight against hunger, I unpack how food, policy, and society are all connected.
Small business spotlight: Mojito_cf (Instagram)
Specimen Linktree: Click here
I’m back with a cheeky voice memo! This time, I’m exploring the lost art of writing a handwritten letter. In an age of digital messages and quick texts, a letter is a value-based way to communicate that truly brings us closer.
You know the drill—listen, share, and don’t forget to subscribe.
Sincerely,
Yours truly,
Kind regards,
Cordially yours,
Jessamyn Reichmann.
Let's talk about Anxiety! Nope-- I'm not talking about Doechii's song called "Anxiety," I'm talking about an experience that we all share.
In this episode, we'll be exploring the sociology of anixety, discussing its definitions, societal trends, and the impact of social media. The conversation delves into two sociological theories—Structural Strain Theory and Postmodern Theory—to understand how societal pressures shape anxiety.
I will offer practical solutions (specimen solutions) for managing anxiety, emphasizing the importance of viewing disruptions as opportunities, using anxiety as a roadmap, and the power of forgiveness. The episode concludes with personal reflections on the importance of being present and the benefits of stepping back from social media.
If you're curious to learn-- press play and turn that volume up!
Resources:
DJ Nayiram (IG: djnayiram)
Specimen the Sociologist LinkTree: Click here!
Hey there, hi there!
What better way to wrap-up our loneliness series then by with a book review. In Project UnLonely: Healing Our Crisis of Disconnection, Author Dr. Jeremy Noble investigates loneloiness not just as a deeply personal experince, but as a widespread public health issue.
If your curious to learn more about loneliness from a medical standpoint with a sprinkle of creative problem-solving, this podcast is the one for you!
Topics discussed:
IG: specimenthesociologist
In this episode of Specimen the Sociologist, we explore the principle of identity — how it’s formed, what it reveals about us, and why it matters for the health of our relationships and society.
Drawing from both sociology and lived experience, Jessamyn Reichmann breaks down how identity takes shape through isolation, conflict, and subtraction. Whether you’re navigating loneliness, disappointment, or simply trying to understand yourself more clearly, this episode offers a thoughtful lens on how identity can serve as both a mirror and a foundation for meaningful change.
*The feedback is a wee-bit spicy on this episode! However, the overall message from this podcast is still powerful.
Business spotlight: Seattle Jazz Fellowship (@seattlejazzfellowship on IG)
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What happens when life gives you lemons — or, more accurately, disappointment? In this episode, Jessamyn shares practical tools for navigating seasons of setbacks and makes a bold claim: that true, authentic hope is born out of disappointment itself. If you're feeling curious, discouraged, or just in need of an emotional boost, turn up the volume and press play.Want to sow into the vision of this podcast? Click here.
In this episode of Specimen the Sociologist, your host Jessamyn Reichmann (that’s “Specimen” with a J!) explores the quiet epidemic of loneliness—not just as an emotion, but as a social and structural issue. From Emile Durkheim’s Anomie Theory to her own personal stories, Jessamyn breaks down how our modern world reshapes connection—and what we can do about it.
With warmth, curiosity, and a little cheek, this episode reminds us that loneliness isn’t just about being alone—it’s about feeling unseen. And sometimes, the most powerful way to push back isn’t through grand gestures, but through small, sincere moments. Because every social interaction is a seed—and when planted with intention, it can grow into the kind of connection that changes everything.
Business spotlight:
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What’s love got to do with it? Absolutely everything. In this episode, Jessamyn Reichmann explores how love is not just an emotional or personal experience, but a powerful tool for transformation. She argues that embracing love can lead to healthier relationships and a more mature version of yourself.
If you're curious to dive into the concept of love with a splash of sociology, press play and join us for this thought-provoking episode of Principle in a Pod.
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When life gives you lemons, you make lemonade! In Jessamyn Reichmann's case, when life gave her lessons, she recorded a podcast. In today's cheeky voice memo, Reichmann dives into all the impromptu lessons she learned from her friendships. Whether it was discovering that she wasn't always meant for certain friendships, learning how to take up space with others, or figuring out how to build intimacy, Jessamyn shares it all.
If you're not in the mood for lemonade but rather a few life lessons, press play and listen to this powerful episode
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The podcast that you didn't ask for but got! Today we're diving into the sociology behind Kendrick Lamar's 2025 Super Bowl Halftime Show. A performance that referenced the United State's current social-political scene, the resilience of Black people and even a celebrity performance with SZA, Mustard, and Serena Williams.
If you're feeling curious and want to put on your Sherlock Holmes Hat! Press play and learn about both the sociology and science behind Lamar's 2025 Super Bowl Halftime Show.
Additional resources:
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Today were going to discuss my favorite f-word and that's friendship! We'll be leveraging the Social Exchange Theory to better understand how we build friendships. This episode will explore how to build healthy relationships by becoming a healthy friend, the principle of reciprocity, and how to honorably leave a friendship.
I believe that friendships are the firm foundation for our social lives and it's time we reexamine them through a sociological lens.
Business spotlight:Frida (IG: shopfrida.co)
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What's a pod without a pea and podcast without a principle! Check out today's episode on empathy and learn how it can cultivate emotional intelligence in your life.
Song: Orange Blossom by GoldFord
Linktree: Specimenthesociologist
I know you’ve heard of conversation starters, but have you ever heard of "conversation enders?" In 2025, we’re all about saving time and mastering the art of gracefully exiting a chat—while keeping it cute and classy!
Linktree: Specimen the Sociologist
Jessamyn Reichmann redefines honor as an active act of giving value, not just respect or loyalty. She explores how honor shows up in social interactions, conversations, and relationships—whether caring for a friend or responding with empathy in conflict.
Tune in for a fresh perspective on how honor can elevate our connections and challenge the way we value ourselves and others
Link: Specimen the Sociologist
In today’s episode, Jessamyn Reichmann explores discernment as an act of honor in relationships and social interactions. Drawing on her passion for people and sociological insights, she explains how discernment enables honest assessments of others’ capabilities, fostering healthier, more balanced connections. Jessamyn encourages listeners to view discernment not as judgment, but as a valuable tool for honoring themselves and others.
Christy Kioko | IG: christykioko
Relational Intelligence | IG: Dharius Daniels
"Been Through That" by Majid Jordan | IG: Majidjordan
In today’s episode of Specimen the Sociologist, titled "N95," we explore Erving Goffman’s dramaturgical theory, which examines how we, as individuals, take on curated roles to navigate the complexities of social interactions. Goffman’s insights reveal that much of our behavior is a performance, shaped by societal expectations. By the end of this episode, we hope to inspire you to question the roles you’ve adopted and remove the "mask" that may be hiding your most authentic self.
Artist spotlight | IG: Kylamaeo
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In this episode, host Jessamyn Reichmann explores the concept of purity from a fresh perspective, arguing that true purity is synonymous with freedom. She delves into how living a life free from societal expectations allows one to embrace individuality and celebrate the beauty of peculiarity. Jessamyn challenges the conventional views on purity, inviting listeners to rethink what it means to live authentically and without constraint
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